Let us pray with today’s Gospel Reading (Mark 2:13-17) as we celebrate the Memorial of St. Anthony of Egypt, Abbot.

Lord Jesus Christ, You called Levi from his place of work and welcomed sinners to Your table, teaching us that You came not for the righteous but to heal those in need. On this Memorial of St. Anthony of Egypt, who left all things to seek You in the silence of the desert, grant us hearts that are ready to respond to Your call, even when it leads us away from comfort, attachment, and self-reliance.

Teach us, Lord, like St. Anthony, to listen attentively to Your voice, to embrace conversion of life, and to hunger for holiness. Free us from the illusions of self-sufficiency, and help us recognize our need for Your mercy and healing.

Lord, may we never exclude or judge those You lovingly invite, but become instruments of compassion, welcome, and hope. Give us the courage to rise, leave behind what binds us, and follow You with simplicity, humility, and joy.

Lord, Physician of souls and bodies, heal what is wounded within us
and lead us ever deeper into friendship with You, so that our lives may glorify the Father now and forever. Amen